ENG-1982 — Page 207

PUBLIC ORDER

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A number of these referrals identified serious procedural weaknesses and, in some cases, resulted in disciplinary action.

In 1982, 94 assignment studies were completed, bringing the total since 1974 to 721. The department's primary task remained studies of specific areas of clients' activities, embracing policy, law, working procedures and management. However, the process of reviewing and monitoring previous studies continued to grow in importance; 23 studies were re-examined in this way. Recommendations seek to remove or limit corruption opportunities basically by eliminating procedural delays, strengthening procedural weaknesses and increasing the risk of detection. All recommendations are discussed with the client, to ensure that they are both practicable and compatible with the efficient discharge of the clients' responsibilities, before endorsement by the Advisory Committee.

Apart from regular assignment studies, the department, through its external training group, continued to explain the principles of supervisory accountability to managers and supervisors in the public sector. In the second half of the year, the main theme was the delegation of authority and its implications in terms of corruption opportunities. The 266 seminars held were attended by over 3 969 participants.

During the year, the Police Corruption Prevention Group continued to function effectively, underscoring the value of a joint approach to common problems. The pro- duction of an agreed schedule of studies made it possible for the department to examine procedures in parallel with major reviews being undertaken by the police themselves. Further studies into areas covered by these reviews are expected during 1983.

Community Relations

The responsibility for maintaining public awareness of the evils of corruption and enlisting support for the ICAC's efforts falls on the Community Relations Department. Action is taken through a programme of media activities and direct contact with various sectors of the community.

During the year, the department reached a record 362 000 people through liaison activities organised by its 10 local offices; it was also able to direct greater resources towards contact with the commercial and industrial sectors. Views were exchanged with business executives on the relevant aspects of the law and the need for higher ethical business standards, and many seminars and discussions were organised.

As in the past, an important focus of the department's work was on young people. As a continuation of the well-received project entitled Towards A Fuller Life the previous year, a series of activities including variety shows, orienteering programmes, exhibitions, seminars and competitions was organised. It is hoped that through participation in these activities, young people will learn to appreciate that the best things in life extend beyond material gains.

Efforts among educational institutes and the teaching profession continued, with a variety of projects for schools. A programme to promote social awareness and civic responsibility, entitled Serve Your Community, attracted the participation of 46 groups which designed, planned and implemented their own service projects. Towards the end of the year, a set of teaching cards was being prepared on topics related to social morality among secondary school students. At the same time, a pilot classroom programme on the same theme was launched in 10 secondary schools.

The department, following its earlier successes, launched a three-year advertising campaign through various media to foster greater public support for the fight against corruption. A series of seven-minute television programmes was also produced to promote